Choirs sing for Lankan refugees

The spirit of the season came alive at ‘Humanitas’ – a Christmas concert organised by St Joseph’s College of Arts and Science (SJC) in aid of the displaced Sri Lankan war victims. Held on December 13 at the Mount Carmel College auditorium, the concert saw performances from ten different choirs in the city.

The Christ University choir opened the show with Gloria and the popular Christmas carol ‘Joy to the world.’ They made way for the young kurta-clad boys from St Joseph’s Pre-University College who presented several contemporary carols.

The girls from Mount Carmel’s and Jyothi Nivas’ left the audience spellbound with their melodious arrangements. Led by Mrs. Deidre Fernandes-Dominic, the Carmelites sang ‘Alleluia’ and ‘Welcome to the world.’ Salomi Rao guided the JNC girls.

Being the hosts, SJC had a lot to offer. A special performance was put up by the North-Eastern choir of the college who beckoned the crowd with the carol ‘O Come all ye Faithful’ and spread the message of peace with ‘Merry Christmas - War is over’. Conducted by Maneesh Dasanayake and Jungshi Imchen, the College Hostel choir’s rendition of ‘Hark the herald’ and ‘Gloria’, all while wearing Santa hats, brought in many smiles.

Earlier, Fr Ambrose Pinto, Principal, SJC, briefly explained to the audience the cause for which Humanitas was being held. He said, “Thousands of people in Sri Lanka have been rendered homeless due to the recent war. The condition of the camps set up by the government is pitiable and it is said that everyday about five people die in those camps due to poor conditions. Through this carol singing we reach out to them and assure of our support for their cause.”

Vice Chancellor, Christ University, Fr Thomas Varkey in his address, emphasised the power of the youth in spreading a social message.

Terrina Jairaj, II M S Com